Good Bye Bessie.

Bessie has left the building.

Five years ago I went to Milwaukee Sewing Machine Company and purchased this industrial serger sewing machine. I had a small home machine, but had found it not "up to snuff" in the speed, agility, or strength departments. It takes a lot of whatever to handle several layers of heavy sweater knit fabrics and not complain or balk.

I brought her home and set her up, and I have to admit she intimidated me a bit. All those threads, exposed motor, and speed. It was a bit like getting out of a Chevy and into a Ferrari. (not that I have even driven either of those!)

But we soon became fast friends. As long as I gave her appropriate oil cocktails, and cleaned her out now and then, she ran like the wind! Scarves that had taken a long (almost unprofitable) amount of time, were now swiftly and securely seamed into glory! She never grumbled when summer came and I switched from sweaters to t-shirts. She loved the velvets I started using just this past year. If ever she coughed or skipped a stitch, it would be found to be a result of my ineptness, not hers.

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She got more than a little linty during our adventures, and even though I cleaned her regularly, I worried about her. I called Don at Milwaukee Sewing Machine  to see how often I should bring her in for maintenance, and he assured me that, unless she was sick or injured, she didn't need to come in. He was right. She never needed anything but a new needle or blade now and then.

I have no idea how many garments, hats, scarves, afghans, gloves and other not quite as successful experiments, she and I made over the last years, but it is well into the thousands. Just me, her, the radio or books on CD and the view out my window... and, of course all my on-line and show contact with my wonderful customers. (and my helpful Roadie and friends at shows!)

So yesterday she went off to live in Baraboo and help make the beautiful bags that Char at "Helen's Daughters" makes. I wish them both well.

Sew long and prosper!